FIREFLY FB180 batt system enhances fire safety at Glasgow Central Station

Fire protection upgrades in Glasgow Central Station redevelopment

The first phase of Network Rail’s £5 million investment in Glasgow Central Station has been completed, featuring upgrades to fire safety systems in the historic Caledonian Chambers.

The project includes the new first-class lounge and ticket office for Avanti West Coast.

Glasgow Central Station, originally opened in 1879, has seen extensive modifications over the years, making fire safety a critical concern.

The work involved bespoke fire protection solutions for large steel beams within the building’s structure.

FIREFLY’s FB180 batt system, originally developed by its parent company in Australia, was adapted for compliance with Building Standards (Scotland) and the Building Regulations.

Bespoke solutions tailored for heritage structures

The Caledonian Chambers, a Category B listed building designed by James Miller in 1903, required tailored fire protection.

When demolition exposed previously unknown I-beams, FIREFLY’s FB180 batt system provided a solution.

These non-combustible batts, combined with fireproof mastic and a special Ablative Coating, delivered integrity and insulation for 60 minutes or longer.

Installation was carried out by Glasgow-based QualiFire Passive Fire Protection.

QualiFire’s founder Joe Stewart said: “Our team has received positive feedback on the ease of cutting and fitting the FIREFLY batts, which generated minimal waste compared to other products.”

Broader public and commercial benefits

The upgrades extend beyond fire safety, with the project aiming to enhance passenger experience.

A new step-free station reception, the relocation of tenants, and the creation of new retail units are part of the redevelopment.

Network Rail’s project manager, Conor McLaughlin, highlighted the benefits: “We aim to improve the station experience by creating a broader range of retail options and enhancing office accommodation.”

The station has remained operational throughout the works, with additional construction phases planned.

Expanding use of FIREFLY systems

FIREFLY’s Technical Sales Manager for Scotland and Ireland, Daniel Gordon, commented on the growing adoption of their products: “The FB180 batt system is increasingly used as a dependable alternative to intumescent coatings for structural steel beams.

“Its consistent quality and ease of use make it a preferred choice among specifiers.”

The system’s flexibility and compliance with fire safety standards have positioned it as a key component in large-scale public projects like Glasgow Central Station.

FIREFLY FB180 batt system enhances fire safety at Glasgow Central Station: summary

The redevelopment of Glasgow Central Station, part of Network Rail’s £5 million investment, has seen the installation of FIREFLY FB180 batts to improve fire safety in the historic Caledonian Chambers.

Bespoke fire protection was essential for the listed building, which posed unique structural challenges.

The project includes upgrades to the station’s layout, retail units, and passenger facilities.

Installation was handled by QualiFire Passive Fire Protection, with positive feedback on the system’s adaptability and compliance with fire safety standards.

Further phases of redevelopment will continue to enhance the station’s functionality and passenger experience.